In December 2024 , January and February 2025, four local schools will become the stage for a series of unique educational experiences under the banner of “Don’t Escape Your Rights.” These innovative events, led by trained Youth Active Ambassadors, aim to bring civic education to life through interactive escape rooms specially designed for their peers.
The initiative is part of a broader effort to encourage youth participation, civic and political engagement, and to raise greater awareness of voting rights and responsibilities. By combining game-based learning, peer-to-peer facilitation, and reflective discussions, the project transforms the way young people interact with democratic concepts, making them relevant, practical, and empowering.
At the heart of each event is a custom-designed escape room experience. These aren’t just games—they are dynamic learning environments built around real-world scenarios where students must apply their knowledge of civic rights, community decision-making, and electoral systems to solve challenges and “escape” the room. The puzzles are designed to stimulate curiosity and introduce critical themes such as the importance of youth voices in politics, how voting works, and how individuals can impact civic life in meaningful ways.
Each school event is led by six Youth Active Ambassadors—students who have undergone specific training to guide their peers through the experience. This peer-led approach creates an authentic and accessible learning space, where participants feel more connected to the content and empowered to ask questions, reflect, and participate actively. The goal is not only to inform but to motivate young people to see their role in society with new eyes.
After the escape room challenge, students take part in guided reflections and discussions. These moments allow them to unpack what they’ve learned, share perspectives, and explore how civic knowledge connects to their everyday lives. This ensures that the experience leads to meaningful insights and potential real-life action.
The “Don’t Escape Your Rights” school events are more than just creative workshops—they are an investment in building a generation of informed, engaged, and empowered citizens. The initiative is expected to generate several lasting outcomes. Students will gain a clearer understanding of democratic systems and their own rights and responsibilities within them. They will experience hands-on engagement with civic concepts and discover that participation in political life can be both practical and rewarding. The Youth Active Ambassadors will demonstrate the power of peer leadership, inspiring others through their example and strengthening their own advocacy and facilitation skills.
By solving puzzles rooted in civic knowledge, students will also develop valuable skills such as critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving. More importantly, the project aims to inspire a long-term shift in attitudes—encouraging young people to become active participants in elections, civic initiatives, and community life. By the end of each event, many will emerge not just more informed, but ready to become champions of civic engagement within their own schools and social circles.
Through a powerful mix of gameplay, leadership, and real-world reflection, the “Don’t Escape Your Rights” school events represent a new chapter in civic education—one that speaks the language of youth, meets them where they are, and reminds them that democracy only works when we all take part.
Because escaping the room is fun—but escaping your rights is not an option.
